- Preheat the Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your dish cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden crust.
- Prepare the Pork Chops:
- Season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice golden crust. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Assemble the Scalloped Potatoes:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Toss to ensure the slices are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potato mixture. Pour one cup of heavy cream over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the grated cheese.
- Add the remaining potatoes in another layer, pour the rest of the heavy cream, and top with the remaining cheese. Dot the top with butter.
- Bake the Potatoes:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. After 1 hour, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Cook the Pork Chops:
- While the potatoes are in their final 20 minutes of baking, return the pork chops to the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and bake alongside the potatoes until they are cooked through (internal temperature reaches 145°F or 63°C).
- Serve:
- Let the scalloped potatoes and pork chops rest for a few minutes after taking them out of the oven. This allows the juices in the pork chops to redistribute and the potatoes to set slightly, making them easier to serve.
- Presentation:
- Serve a generous portion of scalloped potatoes with a pork chop on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
Tips for Perfection:
- Potato Thickness: Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin potato slices, which cook more evenly.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses for the scalloped potatoes. Gruyère, Parmesan, or a smoked cheese can add interesting flavors.
- Resting Time: Allowing the meat to rest before serving ensures juiciness and flavor are locked in.
Conclusion:
This Pork Chops with Scalloped Potatoes recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create a meal that’s both hearty and elegant. It’s a dish that pays homage to traditional cooking while allowing for personal touches and variations. Whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or a gathering of loved ones, this meal is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your table. Enjoy the process of cooking, the joy of sharing, and the warmth of a meal made with love. Bon appétit!